Ashwini (00.00-13.20 Aries) signifies commencement, particularly the energies of Ketu. It is marked by a pair of bright stars in the constellation of Aries. Ashwini is translated into ‘Born of a Female Horse’ or ‘Horse Lady’. As an alternative, Ashwini is also known as Asvayuj or ‘she who yokes horses’.

The constellation is symbolized by the head of a horse reflecting commencement (of a journey). While the horse itself is a symbol of power, strength, courage and vitality, its head indicates swift action.

Behavioral Characteristics

Ashwini denotes spontaneity and hence this nakshatra is marked by vitality as well as initiative. In fact, Ashwini is different from the other nakshatras in its initiating aspect. A native of this nakshatra is fast and agile. The core principle of Ashwini is concerned with rapidity and pace, to achieve which one needs to be concise and direct. People born on this nakshatra, demonstrate a straightforward and no nonsense approach in their transactions.

If you are a person whose birth chart shows a prominent Ashwini, you don’t waste time in translating your impulses into thought and thought into deed, which is why your behavior may be regarded as impulsive. This is at times good, although in negative manifestation, it may be rash. Hence, in all their hurry, they may be wasting their time.

Full of life, the natives of this nakshatra are intelligent, happy go lucky creatures who are highly intelligent. They look youthful and enthusiastic, and age scarcely shows in their appearance as it shows in those born under other nakshatras. With a rising Ashwini in your ascendant, you are likely to be short, sportive, strong, appealing and innocent. It is true that these natives can be sorted from the crowd by their innocent appearance and childlike disposition. The ruling deities of this nakshatra, the Ashwini Kumaras, are attributed with charisma, style, sophistication and lavishness which are prominent in physical and mental nature of the natives.

They also have a strong and adventurous spirit that is blindly attracted to the challenges posed by the unknown. An exploratory spirit is marked with courage and Ashwini has an abundance of it. This daring nakshatra has a chivalric facet to it that derives pleasure from pursuits of heroism. For instance, a 90 year old rock climber could be none other than an Ashwini native. On the flip side, overdone chivalry is apparent in lack of prudence or eagerness to learn from past mistakes and absence of contemplation.

These natives are marked with a distinct sense of humor that is jovial and innocent. Ashwini born persons have this need for movement which makes them failures at activities that require patience. They are helpful and sensitive to the needs of others. Their energetic disposition makes them acquire short term, instead of enduring wisdom. Generally, these people love to stay well dressed and hence splurge on clothes and accessories.

Ashwini natives are straightforward people who love others with similar characteristics. Unique in their pursuits, these natives feel that they are different from others, which is translated in their pioneering spirit. Resourceful and independent, the natives of Ashwini are competent and enduring.

Padas or Quarters

The first quarter falls in Aries Navamsa
which is governed by Mars. The pada is mostly ruled with courage, physical
activity and the spirit of pioneering. The quarter is blessed with energy,
drive and initiative.

The second pada rests in the Taurus
Navamsa that is governed by Venus. It is more resource driven and practical.
The reason is that it is associated with the graceful, indulgent and splendid
element of the Ashvini Kumaras. The quarter is associated with seeing the
material manifestation of its ideas and thoughts.

The third pada of this asterism
relates to the Gemini Navamsa that is governed by Mercury. It is associated
with the light, communicative and humorous aspect of the nakshatra. The quarter
lends the aspect of quick interpretation and makes the individual an expert in
various kinds of mental activities. This is why it is known for its speed.

The fourth pada of the nakshatra
falls on the Cancer Navamsa which is governed by the Moon. It is associated
with the aspect of healing. The quarter is sensitive to the needs of people and
the collective consciousness at any time. This is the source of the emotional
faculty which is manifested as empathy.

Ashwini natives should worship Lord Ganesha and chant the root mantra “Om Am” and “Om Im” 108 times during the lunar transition of this nakshatra to alleviate afflictions. Wearing bright colors is also recommended. All important actions should correspond to the course of this constellation for best results.

Miscellaneous

In the words of Varahamihira, the lunar influence gives Ashwini pleasant appearance, manners and intelligence. Ashwini loves accessorizing themselves and excel in their field. Rock star Jim Morrison is a typical Ashwini native, if his public outbursts are ignored.